Lockheed Plans 2028 Test of Space-Based Missile Defense

Lockheed Martin has confirmed plans to conduct an orbital demonstration of a space-based missile interceptor by 2028, as part of the US Department of Defense's Golden Dome initiative. Launched under an executive order by President Donald Trump, the initiative aims to develop a homeland missile defense architecture that includes satellites capable of intercepting missiles in space.

“We will be ready to support an on-orbit demonstration by 2028,” said Amanda Pound, Director of Space Mission Strategy and Advanced Capabilities, Lockheed Martin.

Golden Dome represents a significant departure from existing missile defense systems, which have traditionally prioritized the protection of forward-deployed forces. The new architecture is intended to safeguard the continental United States from long-range missile threats, including maneuverable hypersonic weapons.

Lockheed Martin executives noted that the full architecture for Golden Dome has not yet been publicly released or formally shared with industry. “We are looking forward to the architecture coming out soon and to gaining a clearer understanding of what is needed for space-based interceptor capabilities,” Pound added.

The company is exploring several technological paths for its interceptor concept, including kinetic hit-to-kill mechanisms and directed-energy systems. However, no definitive design has been disclosed, as official government requirements are still pending.

“The architecture for Golden Dome has not been released to industry or publicly. We are not proposing specific architectural solutions yet, but our existing capabilities form a solid foundation,” said Dan Nimblett, Vice President of Layered Homeland Defense, Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin’s current missile defense portfolio includes the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, PAC-3 missiles, Next-Generation Interceptors, early warning satellites, and radar systems. The company plans to integrate these assets into a broader defense architecture using advanced command-and-control solutions.

Space-based interceptors offer the potential to engage threats during the boost phase—just seconds after launch. By targeting missiles before they release decoys or warheads and before they leave the atmosphere, these interceptors could serve as a critical first line of defense. Their placement in orbit also reduces reliance on ground-based launch systems, potentially enabling smaller and faster kill vehicles.

The Department of Defense has assigned Gen. Michael Guetlein to lead the Golden Dome program and is expected to issue updated guidance to industry within 60 days. This guidance will outline requirements while allowing flexibility in how contractors meet them.